SLE prospectus

Find out more about the role and the benefits of becoming an SLE with our prospectus.

SLE directory of expertise

SLEs are deployed through teaching schools. View the list of specialisms currently designated.

Specialist leaders of education

Specialist leaders of education (SLEs) are outstanding middle and senior leaders who have the skills to support individuals or teams in similar positions in other schools. They understand what outstanding leadership practice in their area of expertise looks like and are skilled in helping other leaders to achieve it in their own context.

The Schools White Paper announced the creation of the SLE role to help raise standards and improve the quality of school leadership through school-to-school support and peer-to-peer learning. This new designation recognises the important role that senior and middle leaders play in improving schools and outcomes for children.

During its first year, 2011-12, just over 1,000 SLEs were designated and are currently being deployed. The aim is to recruit every year, building up to 5,000 in 2014-15, with an eventual total of 10,000 nationwide.

Who can apply?

You need to be an outstanding middle or senior school leader with a particular area of expertise and the capacity, skills and commitment to support others in similar positions in other schools. See the designation criteria and areas of expertise for further details.

What's involved?

SLEs will develop the leadership capacity of individuals and teams in other schools, using coaching or facilitation support that draws on their knowledge and expertise in their specialist area.The work will contribute to improving outcomes for children, with priority likely to be given to supporting the needs of underperforming and challenged schools. Find out more about what is involved.

Duration

SLEs are required to attend a core training day and may also attend optional additional training sessions. There is no pre-defined time commitment for SLE work as models and types of deployment will vary, but on average we think this will be around 15 days a year.

Costs

There is no cost to apply. Successful applicants will be entitled to some training at no cost to their school. However, we are unable to cover the costs of associated travel or supply cover.

Find out more

Apply

The application round is now closed. If you would like to be notified about dates for the next round, email sle@nationalcollege.org.uk.